Description

Ligustrum Lucidum: Characteristics and Features

Ligustrum Lucidum (Glossy privet) is a small tree or shrub which can reach a height of 30 feet or more, but is typically much smaller. It commonly has multiple trunks with light gray smooth or thorny bark and asymmetrical round or vase-shape dense crown with droopy branches.

Furthermore, leaves are dark green, glossy, opposite/sub-opposite, simple, entire, ovate to lanceolate, and 4 to 8 inches long. Flowers are white/cream/gray, showy, borne in erect terminal clusters up to 10 inches long; blooms are very small and fragrant. Fruits also borne in clusters, oval, round, fleshy, blue-black, berries less than 1/2 inch long, attracting birds. Fruits have medicinal use in China.

Growing and Propagating Glossy Privet Tree

Ligustrum Lucidum (Glossy privet) is easily propagated with softwood cuttings or seeds. In cultivation it is hardy, growing in a range of well-drained soil types. Requires pruning to maintain tree form or shrub in hedging.

Uses and Considerations for Planting Glossy Privet

Thanks to its attractive foliage and flowers, Glossy privet tree is an excellent choice for a specimen or accent plant in a garden, courtyard, civic center, also suitable for large planters and formed into topiary. It is important to have in mind that fruits and leaves can create a litter problem; so is best to avoid street sides. Glossy privet is invasive.